lümfivedelikku

Lümfivedelikku refers to a pathological accumulation of lymph fluid in a body cavity. This condition, also known as chylous effusion or chylothorax when it occurs in the chest, arises when the lymphatic system, responsible for draining excess fluid and fats from tissues, becomes obstructed or damaged. The lymph fluid, which is typically milky white due to its high fat content, can then leak into the pleural space, peritoneal cavity, or pericardial sac.

Causes of lümfivedelikku are diverse and can include trauma, surgery, infections, inflammatory conditions, congenital abnormalities of the lymphatic system, and malignancies such as lymphomas or other cancers that compress or invade lymphatic vessels. The presence of large volumes of lymph fluid can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, abdominal distension, chest pain, and weight loss, depending on the location of the effusion.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans to visualize the fluid accumulation, along with paracentesis or thoracentesis to aspirate the fluid for laboratory analysis. Analysis of the fluid confirms the diagnosis by identifying its characteristic milky appearance and high triglyceride levels. Treatment strategies aim to address the underlying cause and manage the fluid buildup. This may involve dietary modifications to reduce fat intake, medical therapies to promote lymphatic drainage, or surgical interventions to repair or reroute damaged lymphatic vessels. In some cases, repeated drainage of the accumulated fluid may be necessary.